I have often wondered whether readers really have the patience to go through a book with about 150,000 words. Though the theme might be exciting and the plot knit taut enough, it often turns out that readers cannot devote time enough to read through it within a week's time. Prolonging the reading time to about a fortnight or sometimes even longer, results in the reader losing track of the plot at times, and thus losing the charm of the "read".
Shortening the book to say about 60,000-70,000 words would considerably reduce the 'reading time' that needs to be devoted to the book. However there might be people who might not perceive enough value in case the book is shorter and might not feel that they have got their money's worth. From the author's perspective, it takes much more effort to keep the book concise and yet make sure that the book does not get diluted with respect to it's plot or the quality as a whole. Hence, I feel that the effort required for concise shortened writing takes far more effort than a longer novel.
However that just what I feel as an individual. I would like to know from others ( Readers as well as fellow Authors ) what they feel about this topic. Would you like a book with more than 150,000 words, or would you like a much more concise piece of work, which would demand lesser reading time, and yet have enough "juice" to quench the readers thirst?
Please leave your views in the comments.
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